Hi Lisa. As to my pain management, I am a transcendental meditator and meditate twice a day 20 mins each time. It sounds aggressive and some will say upon reading that they might not be able to find the time. My personal observation is that time spent for yourself allow more quality time for others and less stress. Just my personal observation - nonjidgements. Because it quells the nervous system there are time when there is no experience of any triGem pain that lasts well beyond the twenty minutes.
I have also tried acupuncture but found it relaxing but generally ineffective for pain management I am taking gabapentin 1200mg., I am in 7th week of the meds. Having worked up to this dosage Limited effectiveness tho. But will continue. My understanding is that when TriGem returns it comes back with a vengeance and modalities that once worked may no longer. I will see.
Of all the modalities the best that I have found is to continue as best I can (and believe me this is hard when every word I utter or every chew I take is accompanied by excruciating pain) to continue to live fully. I am avid equestrian, a member of NYP Mounted and had a 5 hour patrol today. I still practice law and strivr to be the best wife, stepmom and grandma that I can be!! And I just started rowing lessons and have been rowing in the Harlem River each week. As the Bhuddists believe: The human condition comes with pain. But suffering is a choice. I choose not to suffer.
Have a great evening and thanks for your question.